Jamaican restaurant reopens in Canton

CANTON — A Miner Street restaurant reopened today as the owner awaits grand jury action on a felony drug charge.

Ainsley N. "Matthew" Edwards, 25, of 55 Sweeney Road, Potsdam, was charged May 2 with felony first-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance. He is accused of selling 3 ounces of cocaine to a female confidential informant for $5,100 at his restaurant, Leonie's Jamaican Cuisine.

"They're just allegations," Mr. Edwards said. "The restaurant is going to be open most of the time. I hope the loyal customers that have supported me continue to do so."

Mr. Edwards, who last week was released to probation supervision, declined further comment about the pending charge. His landlord, Henry R. "Hank" Ford, Colton, has no plans to boot the restaurant from the property.

"He has a five-year lease and is rent is paid up," Mr. Ford said. "I have no problem with him."

His co-defendant, Rafael Santos, 25, of 214 Randall Road, Lisbon, remains in St. Lawrence County jail on $20,000 bail or $40,000 bond. He was charged with felony first-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.

A search by St. Lawrence County Drug Task Force members allegedly found 12 ounces of cocaine at Mr. Santos's home. The drug task force in all seized 17 ounces of cocaine.